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Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar : A Visionary Queen
Ahilyabai Holkar, the Queen of Malwa, was one of the greatest rulers in Indian history. She was not just a queen but a protector of Sanatan Dharma, a visionary leader, and a woman who dedicated her life to the welfare of her people and the restoration of Hindu temples.
Even though she contributed so much to India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, her name is often missing from history books. It is important to remember her efforts and share her story with future generations.
Ahilyabai Holkar: A Wise and Strong Queen
Early Life and Becoming a Ruler
Ahilyabai was born in 1725 in a small village called Chondi in Maharashtra. She was married into the Holkar dynasty of Malwa. However, after her husband Khanderao Holkar passed away and later her father-in-law Malhar Rao Holkar also died, she took charge of the kingdom in 1767.
A Kind and Fair Ruler
Ahilyabai ruled her kingdom with justice, kindness, and intelligence. She made sure that her people were happy and safe. She lowered taxes, ensured fair treatment of farmers, and worked to improve trade and infrastructure. She was known for solving problems peacefully and always listening to the needs of her people.
Her Devotion to Sanatan Dharma
Unmatched Devotion to Lord Shiva (नि:स्सीम शिवभक्त)
Ahilyabai was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. Her deep faith in Shiva inspired her to build and restore temples dedicated to him, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Somnath Temple. She considered it her duty to protect and preserve the spiritual heritage of India.
Restoring Dharma: धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः
Ahilyabai firmly believed in the principle “Dharma protects those who protect it.” She devoted her life to upholding Dharma by rebuilding sacred temples, supporting saints, and ensuring that spiritual traditions flourished.
No Government Interference in Religion (धर्माचे कामात सरकारातून दिक्कत करायची नाही.)
Ahilyabai believed that the government should not interfere in religious matters. She ensured that the administration did not create obstacles in religious practices and allowed people to worship freely.
Religious, Not Fanatic (धार्मिक असावे धर्मांध नसावे.)
Ahilyabai was deeply religious but never a fanatic. She believed in respecting all traditions and ensuring that religious beliefs did not lead to hatred or discrimination.
Rebuilding and Restoring Temples
Ahilyadevi worked tirelessly to restore Hindu temples that had been destroyed by invaders. Some of her greatest contributions include:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Somnath Temple – Gujarat
- Grishneshwar Temple – Aurangabad, Maharashtra
- Aundha Nagnath Temple – Maharashtra
- Vishnupad Temple – Gaya, Bihar
- Kedarnath Temple – Uttarakhand
- Badrinath Temple – Uttarakhand
- Temples and Ghats at Haridwar – Uttarakhand
- Temples in Rishikesh – Uttarakhand
- Temples at Prayaga (Allahabad) – Uttar Pradesh
- Temples in Naimisharanya – (Ancient pilgrimage site)
- Temples in Puri – Odisha
- Temples in Rameswaram – Tamil Nadu
- Omkareshwar Temple – Madhya Pradesh
- Temples in Mahabaleshwar – Maharashtra
- Temples in Pune – Maharashtra
- Temples in Indore – Madhya Pradesh
- Temples in Srisailam – (Andhra Pradesh/Telangana region)
- Temples in Udupi – Karnataka
- Temples in Gokarna – Karnataka
- Temples in Kathmandu – Nepal
In addition to these temples, Ahilyabai also commissioned the construction or refurbishment of important ghats (such as the Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi) and dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) that supported and enhanced the religious and cultural infrastructure across India.
Her extensive temple-building and restoration work played a crucial role in reviving and preserving the heritage of Sanatan Dharma, ensuring that sacred sites continue to serve as vibrant centers of worship and community life.
Promoting Knowledge and Bhakti (कर्मयोग- भक्तीयोग)
Ahilyabai followed the path of Karmayoga (selfless action) and Bhaktiyoga (devotional service). She saw her work as a form of devotion and dedicated every action towards the service of Dharma and society.
She also encouraged the study of sacred texts like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Dnyaneshwari and supported scholars and saints.
Why Many People Don’t Know About Her
Ignored in History Books
Despite her great work, Ahilyabai is not mentioned much in history books. Most history focuses on wars and conquests, but her contributions were more about rebuilding and preserving Indian culture.
More Regional Than National Recognition
Since her efforts were focused on temple restoration and social welfare rather than military expansion, many people see her as a regional ruler. But in reality, her contributions impacted the entire nation.
Honoring Ahilyadevi Holkar
Ahilyabai is known as “Punyashlok”, meaning a noble and divine soul. People admire her as a compassionate ruler, a great devotee, and a guardian of Dharma. Even today, her work continues to inspire millions.
How We Can Remember Her
- Teaching About Her in Schools: Her contributions should be included in history books so that children learn about her.
- Cultural Programs and Documentaries: More films, exhibitions, and documentaries should be made about her life.
- Social Media and Awareness Campaigns: Her story should be shared widely through the internet and social media.
Ahilyabai Holkar was not just a ruler—she was a Protector of Dharma, a Just Leader, and a Mother to her people. Her contributions to temple restoration and Indian culture are Immense and should never be forgotten.